Helen Woodward Animal Center is a unique non-profit organization in San Diego County that for over 30 years has been committed to the philosophy of people helping animals and animals helping people.

Our Mission

At Helen Woodward Animal Center, people help animals and animals help people. Under one management, this unique organization benefits the community by providing educational and therapeutic programs for people, and humane care and adoption for animals. Life is more precious when trust, unconditional love, and respect exist between animals and one another.

Helen Woodward Animal Center's varied services benefit the community by providing educational and therapeutic programs for people, and humane care and adoption for animals.

Located on 12 acres in Rancho Santa Fe, the nationally recognized Center houses adoption kennels, stables and arena for the Therapeutic Riding program, a pet boarding facility, small-animal and equine hospitals, classrooms, and more. See an aerial view of the facility.

The Helen Woodward Animal Center receives no government funding and relies heavily on tax-deductible contributions from private donors to continue its mission. Find out how you can help.

Who Was Helen Woodward?

Helen Whittier Woodward, the Center's founder, was committed to making the world a better place for people and animals. In 1972, she and a group of friends envisioned a facility that would encompass comprehensive animal care and public education programs. Through her support and leadership, she guided the facility into one of the area's most highly regarded animal and human service programs. The California native who maintained a home in Del Mar for 40 years, Helen Woodward dedicated her life to a number of charities, including those for animals, blind people, and the elderly. More about Helen Woodward.